9.03.2012

God Is Able

20 Now
all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within
us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.21 Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.

Jesus knew firsthand what it meant to live with limited financial
resources, to have others--including family members--question His
actions (Mark 3:21), and to suffer rejection by those He sought to serve
(John 6:66). Yet, in spite of such opposition, Jesus never let
circumstances control His emotions or dictate His actions. Instead, He
chose to trust that the Father was able to carry out His Word.
We are called to follow the example of Christ by believing that God
is able to do what He has promised. For instance, the Bible pledges
eternal salvation for everyone who asks for forgiveness in Jesus' name
(Heb. 7:25). The Son's death on the cross satisfied the demands of
divine justice for all our sins--from "white lies" to unspeakably vile
acts. When we have true faith in Jesus, God will forgive us and make
each of us a new creation in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17). No matter what
trouble we may have caused, He invites us to draw near in faith and
receive the gift of everlasting life.
God promises to save whoever trusts in Him, and also to establish
believers in truth (Rom. 16:25). He gives us a firm foundation in
Christ and then builds us up in righteousness. Through His Spirit and
the Word, we start to see things as our Father does and then can
understand what pleases Him.
By believing God keeps His promises, we grow stronger in our faith
and gain peace. Hardships that would have thrown us off course lose
their power to shake us. Hope replaces discouragement, and trust
overcomes doubt. When trouble comes, focus on God's ability to care for
you.